The reigning world and European champions dominated but found it tough to break down the Lithuania defence and needed three second-half headers from Fernando Llorente (two) and David Silva to secure a 3-1 win in Del Bosque's home town of Salamanca.

"I'm happy because what the team is doing is very positive. The squad continues to have the same energy, enthusiasm and emotion that they had during the World Cup, and this is very important," said Del Bosque, who admits he was not surprised to see Lithuania make it hard for them.

"Lithuania have a system that is uncomfortable to play against, they defend well and look to hit you on the counter-attack. But Spain were great. We've picked up three important points."

Spain's victory, which followed on from their 4-0 triumph away to Liechtenstein in their opening match, saw the Iberian nation move two points clear at the top of Group I - having played a game less then second-placed Scotland and Lithuania.

The Spanish now face Scotland in Glasgow on Tuesday, and Manchester City new boy Silva is expecting another tough encounter, saying in AS: "There are no easy matches. What's important is to get a good result and continue calmly."

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